TENNESSEE
DELEGATE
SELECTION PLAN
FOR THE 2016 DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL
CONVENTION
ISSUED BY THE TENNESSEE DEMOCRATIC PARTY
The Tennessee Delegate Selection Plan
For the 2016 Democratic National Convention
Table of Contents
I.
II.
III.
Introduction & Description of Delegate Selection Process…………………………………...3
A. Introduction………………………………………………………………………………….3
B. Description of Delegate Selection Process……………………………………………...3
Presidential Candidates………………………………………………………………………….5
A. Ballot Access………………………………………………………………………………..5
B. Other Requirements………………………………………………………………………..5
Selection of Delegates and Alternates………………………………………………………....6
A. District-Level Delegates and Alternates………………………………………………....6
B. Unpledged Delegates…………………………………………………………………….12
C. Pledged Party Leader and Elected Official (PLEO) Delegates………………………12
D. At-Large Delegates and Alternates……………………………………………………. 14
E. Replacement of Delegates and Alternates…………………………………………….16
IV.
Convention Standing Committee Members .................................................................... 19
A. Introduction……………………………….. ............................................................... 19
B. Standing Committee Members ............................................................................... 19
V.
The Delegation…………………………….. ...................................................................... 21
VI.
General Provisions and Procedural Guarantees ............................................................ 22
VII.
Affirmative Action and Outreach Plan ............................................................................. 24
A. Statement of Purpose and Organization ................................................................ 24
B. Efforts to Educate on the Delegate Selection Process .......................................... 26
C. Efforts to Publicize the Delegate Selection Process .............................................. 26
D. Representation Goals……………………. ............................................................... 27
E. Obligations of Presidential Candidates to Maximize Participation ......................... 28
F. Inclusion Programs……………………. ................................................................... 29
VIII. Challenges
A. Jurisdiction and Standing ................................................................................... 29
B. Challenges to the Status of the State Party and Challenges to the Plan ............... 30
C. Challenges to Implementation ................................................................................ 31
IX.
Summary of Plan
A. Selection of Delegates and Alternates ................................................................... 31
B. Selection of Standing Committee Members ........................................................... 32
C. Selection of Delegation Chair and Convention Pages ........................................... 33
D. Presidential Candidate Filing Deadline .................................................................. 33
E. Timetable………………………. .............................................................................. 34
Exhibits to the Affirmative Action Plan ................................................................................... 35
Attachments to the Delegate Selection Plan ........................................................................... 37
State 2016 Delegate Selection Plan
For the 2016 Democratic National Convention
Section I
Introduction & Description of
Delegate Selection Process
A.
B.
Introduction
1.
Tennessee has a total of 77 delegates and 6 alternates. (Call I & Appendix B)
2.
The delegate selection process is governed by the Charter and Bylaws of the Democratic
Party of the United States, the Delegate Selection Rules for the 2016 Democratic National
Convention (“Rules”), the Call for the 2016 Democratic National Convention (“Call”), the
Regulations of the Rules and Bylaws Committee for the 2016 Democratic National
Convention (“Regs.”), the rules of the Democratic Party of Tennessee, the Tennessee
election code, and this Delegate Selection Plan. (Call II.A)
3.
Following the adoption of this Delegate Selection Plan by the Tennessee Party Committee,
it shall be submitted for review and approval by the DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee
(“RBC”). The State Party Chair shall be empowered to make any technical revisions to this
document as required by the RBC to correct any omissions and/or deficiencies as found by
the RBC to ensure its full compliance with Party Rules. Such corrections shall be made by
the Tennessee Party Chair and the Plan resubmitted to the RBC within 30 days of receipt
of notice of the RBC’s findings. (Reg. 2.5, Reg. 2.6 & Reg. 2.7)
4.
Once this Plan has been found in Compliance by the RBC, any amendment to the Plan by
the Tennessee Party will be submitted to and approved by the RBC before it becomes
effective. (Reg. 2.9)
Description of Delegate Selection Process
1.
Tennessee will use a proportional representation system based on the results of the
Primary for apportioning delegates to the 2016 Democratic National Convention.
2.
The “first determining step” of Tennessee’s delegate selection process will occur on March
1, 2016 with a primary.
3.
Voter Participation in Process
a.
Participation in Tennessee’s delegate selection process is open to all voters who wish
to participate as Democrats. Voters must be registered to vote no later than January
31, 2016 to be eligible. They may register by email as long as it is postmarked by that
date. Additionally, voters may register at their local county election commission office.
Voters are not required to declare Party; however, they must request a Democratic
primary ballot to vote in the presidential preference primary. (Rules 2.A. & 2.C. & Reg.
4.3.)
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4.
b.
At no stage of Tennessee’s delegate selection process shall any person be required,
directly or indirectly, to pay a cost or fee as a condition for participating. Voluntary
contributions to the Party may be made, but under no circumstances shall a
contribution be mandatory for participation. (Rule 2.D & Reg. 4.4)
c.
No person shall participate or vote in the nominating process for the Democratic
presidential candidate who also participates in the nominating process of any other
party for the corresponding elections. (Rule 2.E)
d.
No person shall vote in more than one (1) meeting, which is the first meeting in the
delegate selection process. (Rule 3.E & Reg. 4.6)
Tennessee is participating in the state government-run presidential preference primary that
will utilize government-run voting systems. The State Party will take provable positive steps
to:
a.
Promote the acquisition, maintenance and regular replacement of accessible precinct
based optical scan systems, wherever possible. (Rule 2.H.1)
b.
Seek enactment of legislation, rules, and policies at the state and local level to ensure
that direct recording electronic systems include a voter verified paper trail. (Rule
2.H.2)
c.
Seek enactment of legislation, rules and policies at the state and local level to ensure
that both optical scan and direct recording electronic systems include recognized
security measures. These measures include automatic routine manual audits
comparing paper records to electronic records following every election and prior to
certification or results where possible; parallel testing on election day; physical and
electronic security for equipment; banning use of wireless components and
connections except where required to provide a voter with a disability a secure and
approved means to access voting materials and exercise the right to vote; public
disclosure of software design; use of transparent and random selection for all auditing
procedures; and effective procedures for addressing evidence of fraud or error. (Rule
2.H.3)
5.
The Tennessee Democratic Party will engage in ongoing discussion on this matter among
party officials and party members.
6.
Scheduling of Delegate Selection Meetings
The dates, times and places for all official Party meetings and events related to the state’s
delegate selection process have been scheduled to encourage the participation of all
Democrats. Such meetings will begin and end at reasonable hours. [The state party is
responsible for selecting the dates and times and providing facilities for all official
meetings and events related to this process. In addition, the scheduling of meetings
shall consider any religious observations that could significantly affect
participation.] (Rule 3.A & Reg. 4.5)
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Section II
Presidential Candidates
A.
Ballot Access
A presidential candidate gains access to the Tennessee presidential preference primary ballot,
or is eligible to participate in Tennessee’s first-tier caucuses, by one of two methods:
1.
One method is to be named by the Secretary of State, recognized as candidates in
national news media throughout the United States. The Secretary of State shall submit the
names to the state election commission no later than December 1, 2015. The Secretary of
State has sole discretion to include only those candidates that he / she determines are
generally advocated or recognized as candidates in the national news media.
2.
The other method is for a party candidate to gain access to the primary ballot is to submit a
petition signed by at least two thousand five hundred (2,500) registered voters of the party
whose nomination is sought and by the candidate, filed not later than twelve o'clock (12:00)
noon, prevailing time December 1, 2015. The nominating petitions shall be filed with the
state election commission and certified duplicates with the coordinator of elections and with
the chair of the candidate's party's state executive committee. No candidate may enter the
presidential primary of more than one (1) statewide political party. There are no filing fees.
The Tennessee Democratic Chair will request specific allowance from Rule 11.B. Division
of Elections - Mark Goins, Coordinator of Elections, 312 Rosa L. Parks Avenue, Snodgrass
Tower, 9th Floor Nashville, TN 37243. Tennessee Democratic Party – 1900 Church Street,
Suite 203, Nashville, TN 37203.
The Secretary of State shall advise each of the prospective candidates by the most expeditious
means available that, unless a candidate withdraws the candidate's name by twelve o'clock (12:00)
noon, prevailing time, December 8, 2015, the candidate's name will appear on the ballot of the
candidate's party in the presidential preference primary. If such a person executes and files with the
state election commission an affidavit stating without qualification that the candidate is not and does
not intend to become a candidate for president in the forthcoming presidential election, the
candidate's name shall not be on the ballot. The secretary of state shall certify to the county election
commissions on December 17, 2015 the names of the candidates to be listed on the ballot.
(ATTACHMENT #13, TCA 2-5-205) (Rules 11.B., 14.A., 14.B., 14.D., 14.E., & 14.H.)
B.
Other Requirements
1.
Each presidential candidate shall certify in writing to the Tennessee Democratic Chair, the
name(s) of his or her authorized representative(s) by (Rule 12.D.1)
2.
Each presidential candidate (including uncommitted status) shall use his or her best efforts
to ensure that his or her respective delegation within the Tennessee delegation achieves
the affirmative action goals established by this Plan and is equally divided between men
and women. (Rule 6.I)
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Section III
Selection of Delegates and Alternates
A.
District-Level Delegates and Alternates
1.
Tennessee is allocated 44 district-level delegates and 4 district-level alternates. (Rule 8.C,
Call I.B, I.I, Appendix B & Reg. 4.31)
2.
District-level delegates and alternates shall be elected by a convention system with twotiers: (a) County Conventions and (b) Congressional District Conventions. All delegates to
the congressional district conventions must be elected at the county conventions, and all
District level delegates and alternates must be elected at the congressional district
conventions.
a.
County Conventions
County Conventions will be held on Saturday, March 12, 2016 at 12 Noon (CST) or 1
PM (EST). The Chair of each County Democratic Party shall cause to be published a
notice of the County Convention in print media of general circulation within the county
not less than twenty (20), nor more than thirty (30) days, prior to the County
Convention and will simultaneously furnish all the news media copies of said notice.
This notice shall clearly state the date, time and place of the County Convention, the
credentials requirements, and give information sufficient to instruct potential delegates
as to how they may qualify and shall give the address with the county where copies of
all rules and regulations may be obtained. The County Democratic Chair shall serve
as the Chair of the County Convention. The County Chair shall appoint a credentials
committee, caucus chair(s) and such other committees as the chair, in its discretion,
shall determine necessary.
The Credentials Committee shall determine the eligibility of the persons or delegates
to vote in accordance with these rules. The Credentials Committee shall rule on any
challenges that are referred to it by the Chair. The Credentials Committee shall
require all voting participants to sign a credentials list containing a statement pursuant
to the following paragraph: Presidential preference and name, address, city, zip code,
email address, phone and fax numbers of the participant.
The participation and delegate selection process is restricted to Democratic voters
who have signed a pledge of support prior to their participation in the delegate
selection process. The pledge of support shall contain a declaration that the
participant is a registered voter in the convention county, is a supporter of the
Democratic Party and will support the nominee of the Democratic Party in the 2016
Presidential election.
Each committee of the County Convention shall consist of at least three (3) members
equally divided, as possible, by sex.
Minority reports shall not be considered unless adopted by at least thirty-three percent
(33%) of the members of the committee present and voting.
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Order of business at the County Conventions shall be as follows:
(1)
Doors open for participant registration 11 AM (CST) or 12 Noon (EST).
(2)
Registration ends 12 Noon (CST) or 1 PM (EST): all persons waiting in line
at this time shall be permitted to register and participate fully in the
Convention.
(3)
Call to order 12:05 PM (CST) or 1:05 PM (EST).
(4)
Pledge to the flag.
(5)
Credentials Committee report.
(6)
Rules Committee report, if any.
(7)
Recognition / Remarks by distinguished guests.
(8)
Recess into caucuses by Presidential preference to select delegates to the
Congressional District Convention.
(9)
Report of Presidential Caucuses.
(10) Adjournment.
No business other than the business necessary to execute the delegate selection plan
shall be permitted at the County Convention.
All delegates elected at the County Convention shall be selected by the Presidential
preference caucuses and must be present at said County Convention. Each caucus of
persons stating a particular presidential preference may elect a predetermined number
of delegates to the Congressional District Convention: The number of County level
delegates will be determined based on a formula giving equal weight to total population
and to the average vote for the Democratic candidates in the 2008 and 2012
presidential elections. The number of each delegates allotted to each presidential
candidate will be based on that candidates performance in the March 1, 2016 primary
election. (See Attachment #13 for a detailed explanation for how County delegates are
apportioned).
In no event, however, may any county Presidential preference caucus elect a number of
delegates to the Congressional District Convention that is greater than the number of
voting participants at the caucus.
Following the County Conventions, the County Chair shall fax or email to the State Party
by 12 Noon CDST, Monday, March 14, 2016, a complete list of all delegates elected to
attend the Congressional District Convention.
The credentials list, the pledge of support and the “hard” copy of the delegates selected
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to attend the Congressional District Convention shall be transmitted by the County Chair
to the State Party Chair by certified mail or in person and must be received at the State
Party Headquarters no later than 5 PM CDST on Monday, March 14, 2016.
b.
Congressional District Conventions
The Congressional District Conventions will be held on March 26, 2016 at 12
Noon CDST or 1 PM EDST. Only Delegates selected at the County Conventions
will be allowed to participate in the District Conventions. The District Convention
follows the same agenda as the County Convention (see above).
The Chairman with consultation from the members of the State Executive
Committee in each Congressional District shall appoint the Chair of each District
Convention. No District Convention Chair may run for delegate to the
Convention at the District Convention he or she chairs. The Chair of the District
Convention shall appoint a credentials committee and such other committees, as
the chair, in its discretion, shall determine necessary.
The participation and delegate selection process is restricted to those delegates
that have been elected at the County Conventions on March 12, 2016 to attend
the Congressional District Conventions. Only the following whose names appear
on the state party lists shall participate:
1. Voting Delegates – those eligible to vote at the Congressional District
convention and,
2. Registered District Delegates – those registered with the state party to be
delegates to the national convention. Only those who submit forms to the
state party by the February 24, 2016 deadline are eligible.
Since all of these delegates have already signed their pledge forms at the
County Convention, it is not necessary to have them sign an additional form.
However, their names must be checked off from the supplied list and that list
must be included with the documents to be forwarded, by certified mail or in
person, to State Party Headquarters by March 28, 2016. Guests are welcome,
but a space segregated from the voting delegates must be provided.
The number of delegates and alternates to be elected at the district-level has
been predetermined (see below). The number of delegates and alternates
allotted to each presidential candidate will be determined based on that
candidates’ performance in the March 1, 2016 primary election.
All delegates must be elected, alternating elections for male/female or
female/male until all positions are filled.
Alternates (if applicable) are to be elected following the election of delegates.
The Congressional District Convention Chair shall fax or email, immediately
following the Convention, to the State Party the names of the delegates and
alternates selected to go to the Democratic National Convention.
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The “hard” copy must be transmitted by the District Convention Chair by certified
mail or in person and received at the State Party Headquarters no later than 12
noon CDST, Monday, March 28, 2016.
3.
Apportionment of District-Level Delegates and Alternates
a.
Tennessee’s district-level delegates and alternates are apportioned among the
districts based on a formula giving equal weight to total population and to the average
vote for the Democratic candidates in the 2008 and 2012 presidential elections.(Rule
8.A.; Regs. 4.10., 4.11 & Appendix A) (See Attachment #14 for detailed explanation
on how district-level delegates and alternates are apportioned.)
b.
The state’s total number of district-level delegates will be equally divided between
men and women. (Rule 6.C.1 & Reg. 4.8)
c.
Each district is expected to elect at least two district-level delegates who meet the
state’s affirmative action goals at the district level convention.
d.
The district-level delegates and alternates are apportioned to districts as indicated in
the following table (Rule 8.B):
:
Delegates
Alternates
District
4.
Males
Females
Total
Males
Females
Total
#1
2
2
4
0
0
0
#2
3
2
5
0
0
0
#3
2
2
4
0
0
0
#4
2
2
4
0
0
0
#5
3
3
6
0
1
1
#6
2
3
5
0
0
0
#7
3
2
5
0
1
1
#8
2
3
5
1
0
1
#9
3
3
6
1
0
1
Total
22
22
44
2
2
4
District-Level Delegate and Alternate Filing Requirements
a.
A district-level delegate and alternate candidate may run for election only within the
district in which he or she is registered to vote. (Rule 12.H)
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5.
b.
An individual can qualify as a candidate for district-level delegate or alternate to the
2016 Democratic National Convention by filing a statement of candidacy designating
his or her singular presidential (or uncommitted) preference and a signed pledge of
support for the presidential candidate (including uncommitted status) with the State
Party by February 24, 2016. A delegate or alternate candidate may modify his or her
singular presidential preference by submitting an updated pledge of support no later
than the filing deadline. (Rule 12.B, Rule 14.F & Reg. 4.21)
c.
All candidates considered for district-level alternate positions must meet the same
requirements as candidates for district-level delegate positions Candidates who were
not chosen at the delegate level may automatically be considered at the alternate
level.(Rule 12.C)
Presidential Candidate Right of Review for District-Level Delegates and Alternates
a.
The State Democratic Chair shall convey to the presidential candidate, or that
candidate’s authorized representative(s), not later than February 26, 2016, 5 pm CST,
a list of all persons who have filed for delegate or alternate pledged to that presidential
candidate. (Rule 12.D & Rule 12.F)
b.
Each presidential candidate, or that candidate’s authorized representative(s), must
then file with the Tennessee Democratic Chair by March 4, 2016, 5 pm CST, a list of
all such candidates he or she has approved, provided that approval be given to at
least three (3) times the number of candidates for delegate men and three (3) times
the number of candidates for delegate women, and three (3) times the number of
candidates for alternate men and three (3) times the number of alternate women to be
selected. (Rule 12.E.1 & Reg. 4.24)
c.
Failure to respond will be deemed approval of all delegate and alternate candidates
submitted to the presidential candidate unless the presidential candidate, or the
authorized representative(s), signifies otherwise in writing to the Tennessee
Democratic Chair not later than March 4, 2016, 5 pm CST. The presidential candidate
shall not reject a candidate without providing just cause for doing so in writing to the
state party.
d.
National convention delegate and alternate candidates removed from the list of bona
fide supporters by a presidential candidate, or that candidate’s authorized
representative(s), may not be elected as a delegate or alternate at that level pledged
to that presidential candidate (including uncommitted status). (Rule 12.E & Reg. 4.24)
e.
The Tennessee Democratic Chair shall certify in writing to the Co-Chairs of the DNC
Rules and Bylaws Committee whether each presidential candidate (including
uncommitted status) has used their best efforts to ensure that their respective districtlevel delegate candidates and district-level alternate candidates meet the affirmative
action and inclusion considerations and goals detailed in the Affirmative Action section
of this Plan within three (3) business days of returning the list of approved district-level
delegate candidates and district-level alternate candidates as indicated in Section
III.A.5.b of this Plan.
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6.
Fair Reflection of Presidential Preference
a.
Presidential Primary - Proportional Representation Plan (Rule 13.A, Rule 13.B & Rule
13.D)
The Tennessee presidential primary election is a “binding” primary. Accordingly,
delegate and alternate positions shall be allocated so as to fairly reflect the expressed
presidential (or uncommitted) preference of the primary voters in each district. The
National Convention delegates and alternates selected at the district level shall be
allocated in proportion to the percentage of the primary vote won in that district by
each preference, except that preferences falling below a 15% threshold shall not be
awarded any delegates or alternates.
7.
b.
Within a district, if no presidential preference reaches a 15% threshold, the threshold
shall be the percentage of the vote received in that district by the front-runner minus
10%. (Rule 13.F)
c.
District-level delegates and alternates pledged to a presidential candidate (including
uncommitted status) are selected by a caucus of person from the unit electing the
delegate or alternate who sign statements of support for that presidential candidate.
(See Sec.III, A, 2: a & b for description). (Rule 12.G.)
Equal Division of District-Level Delegates and Alternates
a.
In order to ensure the district-level delegates are equally divided between men and
women, delegate positions within each district will be designated by presidential
preference beginning with the highest vote-getting presidential preference. This
assignment of delegate positions, alternating by sex as mathematically practicable,
will continue with the next highest vote-getting preferences in descending order until
the gender of each position has been assigned. (Rule 6.C.1 & Reg. 4.8)
The delegate positions shall be pre-designated so that the gender of the first
position to be filled by the winning presidential candidate is pre-determined.
Once the allocation of district delegates among presidential preference(s) has
been calculated, the remaining delegate positions can be assigned to the
presidential preference(s), in order of vote won, alternating by gender.
b.
8.
After the delegates are selected, the alternates will be awarded, using the same
process described above.
The State Democratic Chair shall certify in writing to the Secretary of the Democratic
National Committee (DNC) the election of the state’s district-level delegates and alternates
to the Democratic National Convention within 10 days after their election. (Rule 8.C & Call
IV.A)
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B.
Unpledged Delegates
1.
Unpledged Party Leaders and Elected Officials
a.
The following categories (if applicable) shall constitute the Unpledged Party Leaders
and Elected Official delegate positions:
(1) Members of the Democratic National Committee who legally reside in the state;
(Rule 9.A.1, Call I.F, Call I.J, & Reg. 4.13)
(2) Democratic President and Democratic Vice President (if applicable); (Rule 9.A.2
& Call I.G)
(3) All of Tennessee’s Democratic Members of the U.S. House of Representatives
and the U.S. Senate; (Rule 9.A.3, Call I.H & Call I.J)
(4) The Democratic Governor (if applicable); (Rule 9.A.4, Call I.H & Call I.J)
(5) “Distinguished Party Leader” delegates who legally reside in the state (if
applicable); [Persons who qualify as “Distinguished Party Leader” delegates
are: all former Democratic Presidents or Vice Presidents, all former
Democratic Leaders of the U.S. Senate, all former Democratic Speakers of
the U.S. House of Representatives and Democratic Minority Leaders, as
applicable, and all former Chairs of the Democratic National Committee.]
(Rule 9.A.5, Call I.G & Reg. 4.13)
b.
The certification process for the Unpledged Party Leader and Elected Official
delegates is as follows:
(1) Not later than February 24, 2016, the Secretary of the Democratic National
Committee shall officially confirm to the State Democratic Chair the names of the
unpledged delegates who legally reside in Tennessee. (Rule 9.A)
(2) Official confirmation by the Secretary shall constitute verification of the
unpledged delegates from the categories indicated above. (Call IV.B.1)
(3) The State Democratic Chair shall certify in writing to the Secretary of the DNC
the presidential preference of state‘s unpledged delegates 10 days after the
completion of the State’s Delegate Selection Process. (Call IV.C)
2.
C.
For purposes of achieving equal division between delegate men and delegate women
within the state’s entire convention delegation, the entire delegation includes all pledged
and unpledged delegates. (Rule 6.C)
Pledged Party Leader and Elected Official (PLEO) Delegates
1.
Tennessee is allotted 9 pledged Party Leader and Elected Official (PLEO) delegates. (Call
I.D, E & Appendix B)
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2.
3.
4.
Pledged PLEO Delegate Filing Requirements
a.
Individuals shall be eligible for the pledged Party Leader and Elected Official delegate
positions according to the following priority: big city mayors and state-wide elected
officials (to be given equal consideration); state legislative leaders, state legislators,
and other state, county and local elected officials and party leaders. (Rule 9.B.1 &
Reg. 4.15)
b.
An individual can qualify as a candidate for a position as a pledged PLEO delegate by
filing a statement of candidacy by Monday, March 27, 2016 at 12 Noon CDST with the
State Party Headquarters office at 1900 Church Street, Suite 203, Nashville, TN
37203. (Rules 9.B.(3), & 14.G., Reg. 4.16.)
c.
If persons eligible for pledged PLEO delegate positions have not already made known
their presidential preference (or uncommitted status) as candidates for district-level or
at-large delegate positions, their preference shall be ascertained by filing a signed
pledge of support for a presidential candidate (including uncommitted). (Rule 9.B.(3) &
Reg. 4.16.)
Presidential Candidate Right of Review
a.
The State Democratic Chair shall convey to the presidential candidate, or that
candidate’s authorized representative(s), not later than March 29, 2016, 5 pm CDST,
a list of all persons who have filed for a party and elected official delegate pledged to
that presidential candidate. (Rule 9.B.3 & Rule 12.D)
b.
Each presidential candidate, or that candidate’s authorized representative(s), must file
with the State Democratic Chair, by March 31, 2016, 5 pm CDST, a list of all such
candidates he or she has approved, as long as approval is given to at least 2 names
for every position to which the presidential candidate is entitled. (Rule 12.E.2 & Reg.
4.24)
c.
Failure to respond will be deemed approval of all delegate candidates submitted to the
presidential candidate unless the presidential candidate or the authorized
representative(s) signifies otherwise in writing to the State Democratic Chair not later
than March 31, 2016, 5 pm CDST.
d.
The State Democratic Chair shall certify in writing to the Co-Chairs of the DNC Rules
and Bylaws Committee whether each presidential candidate (including uncommitted
status) has used their best efforts to ensure that their respective pledged PLEO
delegate candidates meet the affirmative action and inclusion considerations and
goals detailed in the Affirmative Action section of this Plan within three (3) business
days of returning the list of approved pledged PLEO candidates as indicated in
Section III.C.3.b of this Plan.
Selection of Pledged Party Leader and Elected Official Delegates
a.
The pledged PLEO slots shall be allocated among presidential preferences on the
same basis as the at-large delegates. (Rule 9.B.2, Rule 10.C, Rule 13.E & Rule F)
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b.
Selection of the pledged PLEO delegates will occur at Noon CDST on April 2, 2016 at
(location), which is after the election of district-level delegates and alternates and prior
to the selection of at-large delegates and alternates. (Rule 9.B)
c.
These delegates will be selected by the State Party Committee, provided that:
(a) Membership on the State Party Committee is apportioned on the basis of
population. There are two members (one male and one female) for each of
Tennessee’s 33 state senate districts. (Rule 9.C.(1))
(b) Members of the State Party Committee have been elected through open
processes in conformity with the basic procedural guarantees utilized for
delegate selection. The committee is elected on the Democratic Primary
ballot during gubernatorial primary election every four years (Rule 9.C.(2))
(c)
Such delegates are elected at a public meeting subsequent to the election
of district-level delegates. (Rule 9.C.3)
(d)
Members of the State Executive Committee were elected Aug 7, 2014 (Rule
9.C.4)
(e) Membership of the State Party Committee complies with the equal division
requirements of Article 9, Section 16 of the Charter of the Democratic Party
of the United States. The State Executive Committee consists of an equal
number of men and women – one each from each of Tennessee’s 33 state
senate districts. (Rule 9.C.(5)) (Rule 9.C.5 & Reg. 4.17.C)
(f)
5.
D.
Alternates are not selected at the pledged Party Leader and Elected Official
level. These alternates are combined with the at-large alternates and
selected as one unit. (Reg. 4.31)
The State Democratic Chair shall certify in writing to the Secretary of the Democratic
National Committee the election of the state’s pledged Party Leader and Elected Official
delegates to the Democratic National Convention within 10 days after their election. (Rule
8.D & Call IV.A)
At-Large Delegates and Alternates
1.
The state of Tennessee is allotted 15 at-large delegates and 2 at-large alternates. (Rule
8.C, Call I.B, II, Appendix B & Reg. 4.31)
2.
At-Large Delegate and Alternate Filing Requirements
a.
Persons desiring to seek at-large delegate or alternate positions may file a
statement of candidacy designating their singular presidential or uncommitted
preference and a signed pledge of support for the presidential candidates
(including uncommitted status) with the State Party by February 24, 2016, 5 pm
CST with the Tennessee Democratic Party at 1900 Church Street, Suite 203,
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Nashville, TN 37203. A delegate or alternate candidate may modify his or her
singular presidential preference by submitting an updated pledge of support no
later than the filing deadline. (Rule 12.B, Rule 14.G, Reg. 4.22, Reg. 4.28 & Reg.
4.31)
b.
3.
4.
The statement of candidacy for at-large delegates and for at-large alternates will
be the same. After the at-large delegates are elected by the state executive
committee those persons not chosen will then be considered candidates for atlarge alternate positions unless they specify otherwise when filing. (Rule 18.A)
Presidential Candidate Right of Review
a.
The State Democratic Chair shall convey to the presidential candidate, or that
candidate’s authorized representative(s), not later than February 26, 2016, 5 pm CST,
a list of all persons who have filed for delegate or alternate pledged to that presidential
candidate. (Rule 12.D) (Reg. 4.23 & Reg. 4.28)
b.
Each presidential candidate, or that candidate’s authorized representative(s), must
then file with the State Democratic Chair, by March 4, 2016, 5 pm CST a list of all
such candidates he or she has approved, provided that, at a minimum, 2 names
remain(s) for every national convention delegate or alternate position to which the
presidential candidate is entitled. (Rule 12.D.4, Rule 12.E.2 & Reg. 4.24)
c.
Failure to respond will be deemed approval of all delegate candidates submitted to the
presidential candidate unless the presidential candidate or the authorized
representative(s) signifies otherwise in writing to the State Democratic Chair not later
than March 4, 2016, 5 pm (CT).
d.
The State Democratic Chair shall certify in writing to the Co-Chairs of the DNC Rules
and Bylaws Committee whether each presidential candidate (including uncommitted
status) has used their best efforts to ensure that their respective at-large delegate
candidates and at-large alternate candidates meet the affirmative action and inclusion
considerations and goals detailed in the Affirmative Action section of this Plan within
three (3) business days of returning the list of approved at-large delegate candidates
and at-large alternate candidates as indicated in Section III.D.3.b of this Plan.
Fair Reflection of Presidential Preference
a.
At-large delegate and alternate positions shall be allocated among presidential
preferences according to the state-wide primary vote (Rule 10.C)
b.
Preferences which have not attained a 15% threshold on a state-wide basis shall not
be entitled to any at-large delegates. (Rule 13.E)
c.
If no presidential preference reaches a 15% threshold, the threshold shall be the
percentage of the statewide vote received by the front-runner, minus 10%. (Rule 13.F)
d.
If a presidential candidate is no longer a candidate at the time of selection of the atlarge delegates, then those at-large slots that would have been allocated to the
14 | 2 0 1 6 D e l e g a t e S e l e c t i o n P l a n 0 5 1 5 1 5 . 1 State 2016 Delegate Selection Plan
candidate will be proportionally divided among the remaining preferences entitled to
an allocation. (Rule 10.C)
e.
5.
If a given presidential preference is entitled to one (1) or more delegate positions but
would not otherwise be entitled to an alternate position, that preference shall be
allotted one (1) at-large alternate position. (Rule 18.B, Call I.I & Reg. 4.31 & Reg.
4.34)
Selection of At-Large Delegates and Alternates
a.
The selection of the at-large delegates and alternates will occur at Noon CDST on
April 2, 2016 at location to be announced which is after all pledged Party Leader and
Elected Official delegates have been selected. (Rule 8.D & Call III)
b.
These delegates and alternates will be selected by the State Executive Committee by
voice vote. (Rule 8.E. & Reg. 4.12.) (see III.C.4.C.(3) above)
c.
Priority of Consideration
(1) In the selection of the at-large delegation priority of consideration shall be given
to African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, Asian Americans and Pacific
Islanders and women. (Rule 6.A.)
(2) In order to continue the Democratic Party’s ongoing efforts to include groups
historically under-represented in the Democratic Party’s affairs and to assist in
the achievement of full participation by these groups, priority of consideration
shall be given other groups by virtue of race/ethnicity, age, sexual orientation,
gender identity or disability. (Rule 5.C, Rule 6.A.3 & Reg. 4.7)
(3) The election of at-large delegates and alternates shall be used, if necessary, to
achieve the equal division of positions between men and women, and may be
used to achieve the representation goals established in the Affirmative Action
section of this Plan. (Rule 6.A & Rule 6.C)
(4) Delegates and alternates are to be considered separate groups for this purpose.
(Rule 6.A.3, Rule 10.A, Reg. 4.8 & Reg. 4.19)
6.
E.
The State Democratic Chair shall certify in writing to the Secretary of the Democratic
National Committee the election of the state’s at-large delegates and alternates to the
Democratic National Convention within 10 days after their election. (Rule 8.C & Call IV.A)
Replacement of Delegates and Alternates
1.
A pledged delegate or alternate may be replaced according to the following guidelines:
a.
Permanent Replacement of a Delegate: (Rule 18.D.2)
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(1) A permanent replacement occurs when a delegate resigns or dies prior to or
during the national convention and the alternate replaces the delegate for the
remainder of the National Convention.
(2) Any alternate permanently replacing a delegate shall be of the same presidential
preference (including uncommitted status) and sex of the delegate he/she
replaces, and to the extent possible shall be from the same political subdivision
within the state as the delegate.
(a)
In the case where the presidential candidate has only one (1) alternate, that
alternate shall become the certified delegate.
(b)
If a presidential candidate has only one (1) alternate, and that alternate
permanently replaces a delegate of the opposite sex, thereby causing the
delegation to no longer be equally divided, the delegation shall not be
considered in violation of Rule 6.C. In such a case, notwithstanding Rule
18.D.2, the State Party Committee shall, at the time of a subsequent
permanent replacement, replace a delegate with a person of the opposite
sex, in order to return the delegation to equal division of men and women.
(Reg. 4.33)
(3) If a delegate or alternate candidate who has been elected but not certified to the
DNC Secretary resigns, dies or is no longer eligible to serve, he or she shall be
replaced, after consultation with the State Party, by the authorized representative
of the presidential candidate to whom he or she is pledged. (Rule 18.D.2)
b.
Temporary Replacement of a Delegate: (Rule 18.D.3)
(1) A temporary replacement occurs when a delegate is to be absent for a limited
period of time during the convention and an alternate temporarily acts in the
delegate’s place.
(2) Any alternate who temporarily replaces a delegate must be of the same
presidential preference (including uncommitted status) as the delegate he/she
replaces, and to the extent possible shall be of the same sex and from the same
political subdivision within the state as the delegate.
c.
The following system will be used to select permanent and temporary replacements of
delegates: The 2016 Tennessee delegation chooses the alternate.
d.
Certification of Replacements
(1) Any alternate who permanently replaces a delegate shall be certified in writing to
the Secretary of the DNC by the State Democratic Chair. (Rule 18.D.3)
(2) Permanent replacement of a delegate (as specified above) by an alternate and
replacement of a vacant alternate position shall be certified in writing by the State
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Democratic Chair to the Secretary of the Democratic National Committee within
three (3) days after the replacement is selected. (Call IV.D.1)
(3) Certification of permanent replacements will be accepted by the Secretary up to
72 hours before the first official session of the Convention is scheduled to
convene. (Call IV.D.1 & Reg. 4.32)
(4) In the case where a pledged delegate is permanently replaced after 72 hours
before the time the first session is scheduled to convene or, in the case where a
pledged delegate is not on the floor of the Convention Hall at the time a roll call
vote is taken, an alternate may be designated (as specified above) to cast the
delegate’s vote. In such case, the Delegation Chair shall indicate the name of the
alternate casting the respective delegate’s vote on the delegation tally sheet.
(Call VIII.F.3.d, Call VIII.F.3.b & Reg. 5.6)
e.
2.
A vacant alternate position shall be filled by the delegation. The replacement shall be
of the same presidential preference (or uncommitted status), of the same sex and, to
the extent possible, from the same political subdivision as the alternate being
replaced. (Rule 18.E)
Unpledged delegates shall not be entitled to a replacement, nor shall the state be entitled
to a replacement, except under the following circumstances: (Rule 18.E & Reg. 4.33)
a.
Members of Congress shall not be entitled to name a replacement. In the event of
changes or vacancies in the state’s Congressional Delegation, following the official
confirmation and prior to the commencement of the National Convention, the DNC
Secretary shall recognize only such changes as have been officially recognized by the
Democratic Caucus of the U.S. House of Representatives or the Democratic
Conference of the U.S. Senate. In the event of a change or vacancy in the state’s
office of Governor, the DNC shall recognize only such changes as have been officially
recognized by the Democratic Governors’ Association. (Call IV.D.2.a)
b.
Members of the Democratic National Committee shall not be entitled to a
replacement, nor shall the state be entitled to a replacement, except in the case of
death of such delegates. In the case where the state’s DNC membership changes
following the DNC Secretary’s official confirmation, but prior to the commencement of
the 2016 Democratic National Convention, acknowledgment by the Secretary of the
new DNC member certification shall constitute verification of the corresponding
change of unpledged delegates. (Call, IV.D.2.b)
c.
Unpledged distinguished Party Leader delegates allocated to the state pursuant to
Rule 9.A.(5), shall not be entitled to name a replacement, nor shall the state be
entitled to name a replacement. (Call IV.D.2.c)
d.
In no case may an alternate cast a vote for an unpledged delegate. (Call VIII.F.3.d)
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Section IV
Convention Standing Committee Members
A.
B.
Introduction
1.
Tennessee has been allocated three (3) member(s) on each of the three (3) standing
committees for the 2016 Democratic National Convention (Credentials, Platform and
Rules), for a total of 9 members. (Call VII.A & Appendix D)
2.
Members of the Convention Standing Committees need not be delegates or alternates to
the 2016 Democratic National Convention. (Call VII.A.3)
3.
These members will be selected in accordance with the procedures indicated below. (Rule
1.G)
Standing Committee Members
1.
2.
Selection Meeting
a.
The members of the standing committees shall be elected by a quorum of
Tennessee’s National Convention delegates, at a meeting to be held on April 2, 2016.
Immediately following the State Executive Committee meeting. (Call VII.B.1)
b.
All members of the delegation shall receive adequate notice of the time, date and
place of the meeting to select the standing committee members. (Call VII.B.1)
Allocation of Members
a.
The members of the standing committees allocated to Tennessee shall
proportionately represent the presidential preference of all candidates (including
uncommitted status) receiving the threshold percentage used in the state’s delegation
to calculate the at-large apportionment pursuant to Rule 13.E. of the Delegate
Selection Rules. (Call VII.C.1 & Reg. 5.8)
b.
The presidential preference of each candidate receiving the applicable percentage or
more within the delegation shall be multiplied by the total number of standing
committee positions allocated to Tennessee. If the result of such multiplication does
not equal 0.455 or above, the presidential preference in question is not entitled to
representation on the standing committee. If the result of such multiplication is 0.455
but less than 1.455, the presidential preference is entitled to one (1) position. Those
preferences securing more than 1.455 but less than 2.455 are entitled to two (2)
positions, etc. (Call VII.C.2)
c.
Where the application of this formula results in the total allocation exceeding the total
number of committee positions, the presidential candidate whose original figure of
representation is farthest from its eventual rounded-off total shall be denied that one
(1) additional position. Where the application of this formula results in the total
allocation falling short of the total number of committee positions, the presidential
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candidate whose original figure of representation is closest to the next rounding level
shall be allotted an additional committee position. (Call VII.C.3)
d.
3.
4.
Standing committee positions allocated to a presidential candidate shall be
proportionately allocated, to the extent practicable, to each of the three (3) standing
committees. When such allocation results in an unequal distribution of standing
committee positions by candidate preference, a drawing shall be conducted to
distribute the additional positions. (Call VII.C.4)
Presidential Candidate Right of Review
a.
Each presidential candidate, or that candidate’s authorized representative(s), shall be
given adequate notice of the date, time and location of the meeting of the state’s
delegation authorized to elect standing committee members. (Call VII.D.1)
b.
Each presidential candidate, or that candidate’s authorized representative(s), must
submit to the State Democratic Chair, by April 2, 2016, 5 pm CDST, a minimum of one
(1) name for each slot awarded to that candidate for members of each committee. The
delegation shall select the standing committee members from among names
submitted by the presidential candidates (including uncommitted status). Presidential
candidates shall not be required to submit the name of more than one (1) person for
each slot awarded to such candidate for members of standing committees. (Call
VII.D.2)
Selection Procedure to Achieve Equal Division
a.
Presidential candidates (including uncommitted status) shall use their best efforts to
ensure that their respective delegation of standing committee members shall achieve
Tennessee’s affirmative action goals and that their respective members are equally
divided between men and women. (Rule 6.I & Reg. 4.9)
b.
Each position on each standing committee shall be assigned by gender. For example,
the first position on the Credentials Committee of the presidential candidate with the
most standing committee positions shall be designated for a [male], the second
position for a [female], and the remaining positions shall be designated in like fashion,
alternating between males and females. Positions for presidential candidates on each
committee shall be ranked according to the total number of standing positions
allocated to each such candidate. After positions on the Credentials Committee are
designated by sex, the designation shall continue with the Platform Committee, then
the Rules Committee.
(1) A separate election shall be conducted for membership on each standing
committee.
(2) The membership of the standing committees shall be as equally divided as
possible under the state allocation; if the number is even, the membership shall
be equally divided between men and women; if the number is odd, the variance
between men and women may not exceed one (1), and the advantaged gender
must not remain constant for the three (3) standing committees. (Call VII.E.1)
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(3) The positions allocated to each presidential candidate on each committee shall
be voted on separately, and the winners shall be the highest vote-getter(s) of the
appropriate sex.
5.
Certification and Substitution
a.
The State Democratic Chair shall certify the standing committee members in writing to
the Secretary of the Democratic National Committee within three (3) days after their
selection. (Call VII.B.3)
b.
No substitutions will be permitted in the case of standing committee members, except
in the case of resignation or death. Substitutions must be made in accordance with the
rules and the election procedures specified in this section, and must be certified in
writing to the Secretary of the Democratic National Committee within three (3) days
after the substitute member is selected but not later than 48 hours before the
respective standing committee meets. (Call VII.B.4)
Section V
The Delegation
A.
Tennessee will select one (1) person to serve as Delegation Chair and 3 to serve as Convention
Pages. (Call IV.E, Call IV.F.1 & Appendix C)
B.
Delegation Chair
1.
2.
C.
Selection Meeting
a.
The Delegation Chair shall be selected by a quorum of the state’s National
Convention Delegates, at a meeting to be held on April 2, 2016. (Call IV.E)
b.
All members of the delegation shall receive timely notice of the time, date and place of
the meeting to select the Delegation Chair. (Rule 3.C)
The State Democratic Chair shall certify the Delegation Chair in writing to the Secretary of
the Democratic National Committee within three (3) days after his or her selection. (Call
IV.E)
Convention Pages
1.
3 individuals will be selected to serve as Tennessee’s Convention Pages by the State
Democratic Chair in consultation with the members of the Democratic National Committee
from the state. (Call IV.F.3, Appendix C & Reg. 5.7)
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2.
The Convention Pages shall be as evenly divided between men and women as possible
under the state allocation and shall reflect as much as possible, the Affirmative Action
guidelines in the Affirmative Action Plan. (Reg. 5.7.A)
3.
The State Democratic Chair shall certify the individuals to serve as Tennessee’s
Convention Pages in writing to the Secretary of the Democratic National Committee within
three (3) days after the selection. (Call IV.F.3 & Reg. 5.7.B)
Section VI
General Provisions and Procedural Guarantees
A.
The Tennessee Democratic Party reaffirms its commitment to an open party by incorporating the
“six basic elements” as listed below. These provisions demonstrate the intention of the
Democratic Party to ensure a full opportunity for all minority group members to participate in the
delegate selection process. (Rule 4.A. & Rule C)
1.
All public meetings at all levels of the Democratic Party in Tennessee should be open to all
members of the Democratic Party regardless of race, sex, age, color, creed, national origin,
religion, ethnic identity, sexual orientation, gender identity, economic status or physical
disability (hereinafter collectively referred to as “status”). (Rule 4.B.1)
2.
No test for membership in, nor any oaths of loyalty to, the Democratic Party in Tennessee
should be required or used which has the effect of requiring prospective or current
members of the Democratic Party to acquiesce in, condone or support discrimination based
on “status.” (Rule 4.B.2)
3.
The time and place for all public meetings of the Democratic Party in Tennessee on all
levels should be publicized fully and in such manner as to assure timely notice to all
interested persons. Such meetings must be held in places accessible to all Party members
and large enough to accommodate all interested persons. (Rule 4.B.3)
4.
The Democratic Party in Tennessee, on all levels, should support the broadest possible
registration without discrimination based on “status.” (Rule 4.B.4)
5.
The Democratic Party in Tennessee should publicize fully and in such a manner as to
assure notice to all interested parties a full description of the legal and practical procedures
for selection of Democratic Party officers and representatives on all levels. Publication of
these procedures should be done in such fashion that all prospective and current members
of each State Democratic Party will be fully and adequately informed of the pertinent
procedures in time to participate in each selection procedure at all levels of the Democratic
Party organization. (Rule 4.B.5)
5.
The Democratic Party in Tennessee should publicize fully and in such a manner as to
assure notice to all interested parties, a complete description of the legal and practical
qualifications of all positions as officers and representatives of the State Democratic Party.
Such publication should be done in timely fashion so that all prospective candidates or
applicants for any elected or appointed position within each State Democratic Party will
have full and adequate opportunity to compete for office. (Rule 4.B.6)
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B.
Discrimination on the basis of ”status” in the conduct of Democratic Party affairs is prohibited.
(Rule 5.B)
C.
Tennessee’s delegation shall be equally divided between delegate men and delegate women,
and alternate men and alternate women. Such goal applies to the entire delegation, which
includes all pledged delegates and alternates and all unpledged delegates. Delegates and
alternates shall be considered separate groups for purposes of achieving equal division. (Rule
6.C)
D.
All delegate and alternate candidates must be identified as to presidential preference or
uncommitted status at all levels which determine presidential preference. (Rule 12.A)
E.
No delegate at any level of the delegate selection process shall be mandated by law or Party
rules to vote contrary to that person’s presidential choice as expressed at the time the delegate
is elected. (Rule 12.I)
F.
Delegates elected to the national convention pledged to a presidential candidate shall in all good
conscience reflect the sentiments of those who elected them. (Rule 12.J)
G.
All delegates, alternates and standing committee members must be bona fide Democrats who
have the interests, welfare and success of the Democratic Party of the United States at heart,
who subscribe to the substance, intent and principles of the Charter and Bylaws of the
Democratic Party of the United States, and who will participate in the Convention in good faith.
(Rule 12.H & Reg. 4.25)
H.
Forty percent (40%) of the members of any Party body above the first level of the delegate
selection process shall constitute a quorum for any business pertaining to the selection of
National Convention delegates, alternates, standing committee members, and other official
Convention participants. (Rule 15)
I.
Proxy voting is prohibited. (Rule 16 & Reg. 4.28)
J.
The unit rule, or any rule or practice whereby all members of a Party unit or delegation may be
required to cast their votes in accordance with the will of a majority of the body, shall not be used
at any stage of the delegate selection process. (Rule 17.A)
K.
Any individual or group of Democrats may sponsor or endorse a slate of candidates for
convention delegates. But no slate may, by virtue of such endorsement, receive a preferential
place on a delegate selection ballot or be publicly identified on the ballot as the official
Democratic Party organization slate, and all slates must meet identical qualifying requirements
for appearing on a ballot at all levels of the delegate selection process. (Rule 17.B)
L.
All steps in the delegate selection process, including the filing of presidential candidates, must
take place within the calendar year of the Democratic National Convention, except with respect
to the implementation of the Affirmative Action Plan. (Rule 1.F & Rule 11.B)
M.
In electing and certifying delegates and alternates to the 2016 Democratic National Convention,
Tennessee thereby undertakes to assure all Democratic voters in the state a full, timely and
22 | 2 0 1 6 D e l e g a t e S e l e c t i o n P l a n 0 5 1 5 1 5 . 1 State 2016 Delegate Selection Plan
equal opportunity to participate in the delegate selection process and in all Party affairs and to
implement affirmative action programs toward that end: that the delegates and alternates to the
Convention shall be selected in accordance with the Delegate Selection Rules for the 2016
Democratic National Convention: and that the delegates certified will not publicly support or
campaign for any candidate for President or Vice President other than the nominees of the
Democratic National Convention. Furthermore, voters in the state will have the opportunity to
cast their election ballots for the Presidential and Vice Presidential nominees selected by said
Convention, and for electors pledged formally and in good conscience to the election of these
Presidential and Vice Presidential nominees, under the label and designation of the Democratic
Party of the United States. (Call II.B)
Section VII
Affirmative Action, Outreach and Inclusion Plan
A.
Statement of Purpose and Organization
1.
Purpose and Objectives
a.
In order that the Democratic Party at all levels be an open Party which includes rather
than excludes people from participation, a program of effective affirmative action is
hereby adopted by Tennessee. (Rule 5.A)
b.
Discrimination on the basis of “status” in the conduct of Democratic Party affairs is
prohibited. (Rule 5.B)
c.
All public meetings at all levels of the Democratic Party in Tennessee should be open
to all members of the Democratic Party regardless of race, sex, age, color, creed,
national origin, religion, ethnic identity, sexual orientation, gender identity, economic
status or physical disability (hereinafter collectively referred to as “status”).
(Rule 4.B.1)
d.
Consistent with the Democratic Party’s commitment to including groups historically
under-represented in the Democratic Party’s affairs, by virtue of race/ethnicity, age,
sexual orientation, gender identity or disability, Tennessee has developed Party
outreach programs. Such programs include recruitment, education and training, in
order to achieve full participation by such groups and diversity in the delegate
selection process and at all levels of Party affairs for 2012. These programs will proactively reach out to Democratic constituencies including African Americans,
Hispanics, Native Americans, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, women, ethnics,
youth, persons over 65 years of age, lesbians and gay men, workers, and persons
with disabilities to heighten the awareness of these groups and the Democratic Party’s
desire to have them fully participate. (Rule 5.C & Reg. 4.7.)
e.
In order to encourage full participation by all Democrats in the delegate selection
process and in all Party affairs, the Tennessee Democratic Party has adopted and will
implement programs with specific goals and timetables for African Americans,
Hispanics, Native Americans, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and women. To
further encourage full participation in the process, the State Party has established
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goals and timetables for other underrepresented groups, including LGBT Americans,
people with disabilities and youth. (Rule 6.A & Rule 7)
(1) The goal of the programs shall be to encourage participation in the delegate
selection process and in Party organizations at all levels by the aforementioned
groups as indicated by their presence in the Democratic electorate. (Rule 6.A.1)
(2) For the delegate selection process, “Youth” is defined as any participant 36 years
old and younger.
(3) For the delegate selection process, individuals identifying as Native Americans
should provide their tribal affiliation and indicate if they are enrolled in a tribe.
(4) These goals shall not be accomplished either directly or indirectly by the Party’s
imposition of mandatory quotas at any level of the delegate selection process or
in any other Party affairs. (Rule 6.A.2)
2.
Organizational Structure
a.
An Affirmative Action Committee shall be appointed by the State Democratic Chair
March 1, 2015 (Rule 6.F)
b.
The State Democratic Chair shall certify in writing to the Rules and Bylaws Committee
of the Democratic National Committee the compliance of the State’s Affirmative Action
Committee with Rules 5.C, 6.A and 7, and submit the names, demographic data and
contact information no later than 15 days after their appointment. (Reg. 2.2.K)
c.
The Committee shall consist of members from each delegate district representing the
Democratic constituency groups set forth in the Introduction to the Affirmative Action
Plan.
d.
The Affirmative Action Committee shall be responsible for:
(1) Reviewing the proposed Delegate Selection and Affirmative Action Plans and
making recommendations to the State Democratic Chair.
(2) Reviewing the proposed Inclusion Programs and making recommendations to
the State Democratic Chair.
(3) Directing the implementation of all requirements of the Affirmative Action section
of this Plan.
(4) Implementing a financial assistance program for delegates and alternates. (Rule
6.G)
(5) Ensuring, on behalf of the State Party Committee, that district lines used in the
delegate selection process are not gerrymandered to discriminate against African
Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders
and women. (Rule 6.E)
24 | 2 0 1 6 D e l e g a t e S e l e c t i o n P l a n 0 5 1 5 1 5 . 1 State 2016 Delegate Selection Plan
e.
3.
B.
C.
Financial and staff support for the Affirmative Action Committee shall be provided by
the State Party Committee to the greatest extent feasible, including, but not limited to,
making available on a priority basis, the State Party staff and volunteers and covering
all reasonable costs incurred in carrying out this Plan.
Implementation of the Affirmative Action Plan shall begin on September 1, 2015 with the
distribution of the press kits, and will continue through the end of the delegate selection
process. (Rule 1.F)
Efforts to Educate on the Delegate Selection Process
1.
Well-publicized educational workshops will be conducted in each of the delegate districts
beginning in September 2015. These workshops will be designed to encourage
participation in the delegate selection process, including apprising potential delegate
candidates of the availability of financial assistance. These workshops will be held in places
that are easily accessible to persons with physical disabilities. The times, dates, places and
rules for the conduct of all education workshops, meetings and other events involved in the
delegate selection process shall be effectively publicized by the party organization and
include mailings to various organizations representative of the Democratic voting populace.
(Rule 3.A, Rule 3.C & Rule 3.D)
2.
A speakers bureau of volunteers from the Affirmative Action Committee comprised of
individuals who are fully familiar with the process, will be organized to appear before
groups, as needed, to provide information concerning the process.
3.
The State Party’s education efforts will include outreach to community leaders within the
Democratic Party’s constituencies and making sure that information about the delegate
selection process is available to Democratic clubs and Party caucuses representing
specific constituencies.
4.
The State Party will publish and make available at no cost: a clear and concise explanation
of how Democratic voters can participate in the delegate selection process; an explanation
of how, where and when persons can register to vote; and delegate district maps. As well,
the State Party shall also make available copies of the State Party Rules, the Delegate
Selection Plan (and its attachments), the Affirmative Action Plan, and relevant state
statutes at no cost. Copies of documents related to the state’s delegate selection process
will be prepared and the Affirmative Action Committee will distribute them in the various
delegate districts not later than June 26, 2015 (Rule 1.H)
5.
The State Party shall take all feasible steps to encourage persons to register and to vote as
Democrats and will seek to ensure simple and easy registration procedures. (Rule 2.C)
Efforts to Publicize the Delegate Selection Process
1.
Special attention shall be directed at publicizing the delegate selection process in the state.
Such publicity shall include information on eligibility to vote and how to become a candidate
for delegate, the time and location of each stage of the delegate selection process and
where to get additional information. The foregoing information will also be published in the
25 | 2 0 1 6 D e l e g a t e S e l e c t i o n P l a n 0 5 1 5 1 5 . 1 State 2016 Delegate Selection Plan
State Party communications and on the State Party’s website. The Party organization,
official, candidate, or member calling a meeting or scheduling an event, shall effectively
publicize the role that such meeting or event plays in the selection of delegates and
alternates to the Democratic National Convention. (Rule 3.C & Rule 3.D)
2.
Newspapers, radio and television will be utilized to inform the general public how, when
and where to participate in the delegate selection process. Specifically, this information
should provide details as to how to qualify to run as a delegate candidate. Special effort
shall be directed to the major daily newspapers, radio and television stations by the State
Democratic Chair, Affirmative Action Committee members and staff. Regular releases
during the delegate selection process to all other media sources, weekly newspapers, and
wire services should complete timely coverage. (Rule 4.B.3 & Rule 6.D)
3.
A priority effort shall be directed at publicity among the Democratic Party’s constituencies.
4.
D.
a.
Information about the delegate selection process will be provided to minority
newspapers and radio stations, ethnic press, Native American, Asian Americans and
Pacific Islanders, Spanish-speaking and other non-English press, radio stations and
publications, and women’s organizations, student newspapers, LGBT press, disability
press, and any other specialty media in the state that is likely to reach the Democratic
constituency groups set forth in the Introduction of this Affirmative Action Plan.
b.
The State Party shall be responsible for the implementation of this publicity effort. For
purposes of providing adequate notice of the delegate selection process, the times,
dates, places and rules for the conduct meetings and conventions shall be effectively
publicized, multilingually where necessary, to encourage the participation of minority
groups shall be effectively publicized, multilingually where necessary, to encourage
the participation of minority groups. (Rule 6.D)
Not later than September 1, 2015, a press kit shall be made and provided to each daily and
weekly newspaper as well as to the electronic media. The press kit will include:
a.
a summary of all pertinent rules related to the state’s delegate selection process;
b.
a map of delegate districts and how many delegates will be elected within each
district;
c.
a summary explaining the operation and importance of the 2016 Convention; and
d.
materials designed to encourage participation by prospective delegate candidates.
Representation Goals
1.
The State Party has determined the demographic composition of African Americans,
Hispanics, Native Americans, and Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the state’s
Democratic electorate. These constituency percentages shall be established as goals for
representation in the state’s convention delegation. (Rule 6.A)
26 | 2 0 1 6 D e l e g a t e S e l e c t i o n P l a n 0 5 1 5 1 5 . 1 State 2016 Delegate Selection Plan
2.
The State Party has determined the demographic composition of members of the LGBT
community, people with disabilities, and youth in the state’s Democratic electorate and
furthermore, the State Party has chosen to establish these percentages as goals for
representation in the state’s convention delegation.
Hispanics
Native
Americans
Asian
Americans
and Pacific
Islanders
LGBT
Americans
People with
Disabilities
Youth
28.2
3.7
.3
.1
13.6
2.7
16.9
22
3
0
0
10
2
13
African
Americans
Percent in
Democratic
Electorate
Numeric
Goals for
Delegation
E.
3.
When selecting the at-large portion of the delegation, the demographic composition of the
other delegates (district-level, pledged PLEO, and unpledged) shall be compared with the
State Party’s goals in order to achieve an at-large selection process that helps to bring
about a representative balance.
4.
Use of the at-large delegation to achieve the affirmative action goals established by this
Plan does not obviate the need for the State Party to conduct outreach activities such as
recruitment, education and training. (Rule 6.A.3)
Obligations of Presidential Candidates to Maximize Participation
1.
Presidential candidates shall assist the Tennessee Democratic Party in meeting the
demographic representation goals reflected in the Affirmative Action Plan. (Rule 6.H)
2.
Each presidential candidate must submit a written statement to the State Democratic Chair
by December 8, 2015 which indicates the specific steps he or she will take to encourage
full participation in Tennessee’s delegate selection process, including, but not limited to,
procedures by which persons may file as candidates for delegate or alternate. (Rule 6.H.1)
3.
Each presidential candidate must submit demographic information with respect to all
candidates for delegate and alternate pledged to them. Such information shall be submitted
in conjunction with the list of names approved for consideration as delegate and alternate
candidates pledged to the presidential candidate. (Rule 6.H.2)
4.
Presidential candidates (including uncommitted status) shall use their best effort to ensure
that their respective delegations within the state’s delegate, alternate and standing
committee delegations shall achieve the affirmative action goals reflected in the Affirmative
Action Plan and that the respective delegations of each presidential candidate shall be
equally divided between men and women. Furthermore, presidential candidates shall use
their best efforts at the district level to approve delegate and alternate candidates who meet
applicable equal division and affirmative action considerations in order to achieve the
27 | 2 0 1 6 D e l e g a t e S e l e c t i o n P l a n 0 5 1 5 1 5 . 1 State 2016 Delegate Selection Plan
affirmative action goals and equal division for their respective delegations. (Rule 6.I & Reg.
4.9)
F.
Inclusion Programs
1.
In order to achieve full participation of other groups that may be under-represented in Party
affairs, including members of the LGBT community, people with disabilities and youth, the
Tennessee Democratic Party has adopted and will implement Inclusion Programs.
2.
The State Party has taken reasonable steps to determine the composition of members of
the LGBT community, people with disabilities, and youth in the state’s Democratic
electorate. Meetings and conventions shall be effectively publicized, multilingually where
necessary, to encourage the participation of minority groups (Reg. 4.7.C.iii)
3.
In securing this level of full participation, the State Party will conduct the education and
publicity outreach efforts outlined in Sections B and C of this Section respectively.
Section VIII
Challenges
A.
Jurisdiction & Standing
1.
Challenges related to the delegate selection process are governed by the Regulations of
the DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee for the 2016 Democratic National Convention (Reg.
Sec. 3), and the “Rules of Procedure of the Credentials Committee of the 2016 Democratic
National Convention.” (Call Appendix A)
2.
Under Rule 20.B. of the 2016 Delegate Selection Rules, the DNC Rules and Bylaws
Committee has jurisdiction over challenges pertaining to the submission, nonimplementation and violation of state Delegate Selection and Affirmative Action Plans.
(Rule 20.B & Call Appendix A)
3.
The Rules and Bylaws Committee has jurisdiction to hear and decide any challenge
provided it is initiated before the 56th day preceding the date of the commencement of the
2016 Democratic National Convention. (Call Appendix A & Reg. 3.1)
4.
Challenges to the credentials of delegates and alternates to the 2016 Democratic National
Convention initiated on or after the 56th day preceding the date of commencement of the
Democratic National Convention shall be processed in accordance with the “Rules of
Procedure of the Credentials Committee of the 2016 Democratic National Convention.”
(Call Appendix A)
5.
Any challenge to the credentials of a standing committee member shall be considered and
resolved by the affected standing committee in accordance with Appendix A of the Call for
28 | 2 0 1 6 D e l e g a t e S e l e c t i o n P l a n 0 5 1 5 1 5 . 1 State 2016 Delegate Selection Plan
the 2016 Democratic National Convention. The Rules and Bylaws Committee shall have
jurisdiction over challenges brought before the 56th day preceding the date of the
commencement of the Democratic National Convention. (Call VII.B.5)
B.
C.
6.
Copies of the Regulations of the Rules and Bylaws Committee and/or the Call for the 2016
Democratic National Convention, including the Rules of Procedure of the Credentials
Committee (Appendix A), shall be made available by the State Party upon reasonable
request.
7.
Any group of 15 Democrats with standing to challenge as defined in Reg. 3.2 or the Call
(Appendix A, Sec. 2.A), may bring a challenge to this Plan or to the implementation of this
Plan, including its Affirmative Action provisions.
Challenges to the Status of the State Party and Challenges to the Plan
1.
A challenge to the status of the State Party Committee as the body entitled to sponsor a
delegation from that state shall be filed with the Rules and Bylaws Committee not later than
30 calendar days prior to the initiation of the state’s delegate selection process. (Rule 20.A
& Reg. 3.4.A)
2.
A challenge to the state’s Delegate Selection Plan shall be filed with the Chair of the
Tennessee Democratic Party and the Co-Chairs of the Rules and Bylaws Committee
within15 calendar days after the adoption of the Plan by the State Party. (Reg. 3.4.B)
3.
A challenge to a Plan must be brought in conformity with the Rules and the Regs., which
should be consulted for a detailed explanation of challenge procedures.
Challenges to Implementation
1.
A challenge may be brought alleging that a specific requirement of an approved Plan has
not been properly implemented. Jurisdiction over all challenges initiated in a timely fashion
shall reside with either the Rules and Bylaws Committee or the Credentials Committee of
the National Convention (See Section VII.A. above). However, the Rules and Bylaws
Committee may provide advice, assistance or interpretations of the Delegate Selection
Rules at any stage of the delegate selection process. (Reg. 3.1.C)
2.
An implementation challenge brought before the Rules and Bylaws Committee is initiated
by filing a written challenge with the State Party Committee and with the Rules and Bylaws
Committee not later than 15 days after the alleged violation occurred. The State Party has
21 days to render a decision. Within 10 days of the decision, any party to the challenge
may appeal it to the Rules and Bylaws Committee. If in fact, the State Party renders no
decision, any party to the challenge may request the Rules and Bylaws Committee to
process it. The request must be made within 10 days after expiration of the above 21-day
period. (Reg. 3.4.C, Reg. E & Reg. H)
3.
Performance under an approved Affirmative Action Plan and composition of the convention
delegation shall be considered relevant evidence in the challenge to any state delegation. If
a State Party has adopted and implemented an approved affirmative action program, the
State Party shall not be subject to challenge based solely on delegation composition or
29 | 2 0 1 6 D e l e g a t e S e l e c t i o n P l a n 0 5 1 5 1 5 . 1 State 2016 Delegate Selection Plan
primary results. (Rule 6.B) The procedures are the same for challenges alleging failure to
properly implement the Affirmative Action section of a Plan, except that such challenges
must be filed not later than 30 days prior to the initiation of the state’s delegate selection
process. (Reg. 3.4.C)
4.
Depending on the appropriate jurisdiction (see Section VIII.A. above), implementation
challenges must be brought in conformity with the Regulations of the Rules and Bylaws
Committee or the Rules of Procedure of the Credentials Committee, which should be
consulted for a detailed explanation of challenge procedures.
Section IX
Summary of Plan
A.
Selection of Delegates and Alternates
Tennessee will use a proportional representation system based on the results of the Error! Reference
source not found. apportioning its delegates to the 2016 Democratic National Convention.
The “first determining step” of Error! Reference source not found.’s delegate selection process will
occur on March 1, 2016, with a Error! Reference source not found..
Delegates and alternates will be selected as summarized on the following chart:
30 | 2 0 1 6 D e l e g a t e S e l e c t i o n P l a n 0 5 1 5 1 5 . 1 State 2016 Delegate Selection Plan
Type
District-Level Delegates
District-Level Alternates
Delegates
Alternates
Date of
Selection
44
4
3/26/16
3/26/16
Selecting Body
Filing Requirements and Deadlines
Selected by (2 tier) conventions:
March 12, 2016 County Conventions
March 26, 2016 Congressional District Conventions
Filing Requirements:
Statement of Candidacy and Pledge of Support
Filing Deadline:
Februaru 24, 2016
Unpledged Party Leader and
Elected Official Delegates*
9
n/a
n/a
Pledged Party Leaders and
Elected Officials (PLEOs)
9
**
4/2/16
Selecting Body: State Executive Committee
Filing Requirements:
Statement of Candidacy and Pledge of Support
Filing Deadline:
March 27, 2016
15
2
4/2/16
4/2/16
Selecting Body: State Executive Committee
Filing Requirements:
Statement of Candidacy and Pledge of Support
Filing Deadline:
February 24, 2016
77
6
At-Large Delegates
At-Large Alternates
TOTAL Delegates and
Alternates
Automatic by virtue of respective public or Party office as provided in
Rule 8.A. of the 2016 Delegate Selection Rules.
*
Unpledged Party Leader and Elected Official (PLEO) delegates includes the following
categories, if applicable, who legally reside in the state: the Democratic National Committee
Members, the Democratic President, the Democratic Vice President, all Democratic Members of
Congress, the Democratic Governor, and any other Distinguished Party Leader as specified in
Rule 9.A. of the 2016 Delegate Selection Rules. The exact number of Unpledged PLEO
Delegates is subject to change due to possible deaths, resignations, elections or special
elections.
**
Pledged Party Leader and Elected Official (PLEO) alternates are selected with the At-Large
alternates.
B.
Selection of Standing Committee Members (For the Credentials, Platform and Rules
Committees)
Standing committee members will be selected by the state’s National Convention delegates as
summarized below:
Members Per
Committee
Total
Members
3
9
Selection Date
April 2, 2016
31 | 2 0 1 6 D e l e g a t e S e l e c t i o n P l a n 0 5 1 5 1 5 . 1 State 2016 Delegate Selection Plan
C.
Selection of Delegation Chair and Convention Pages
The Delegation Chair will be selected by the National Convention Delegates on April 2, 2016.
3 Convention Pages will be selected by the State Democratic Chair on April 2, 2016.
D.
Presidential Candidate Filing Deadline
A presidential candidate gains access to the presidential preference primary ballot by one of two
methods:
1. One method is to be named by the Secretary of State, recognized as candidates in national
news media throughout the United States. The secretary of state shall submit the names to
the state election commission no later than December 1, 2015. The secretary of state has
sole discretion to include only those candidates that he / she determines are generally
advocated or recognized as candidates in the national news media.
2. The other method is for a party candidate to gain access to the primary ballot is to submit a
petition signed by at least two thousand five hundred (2,500) registered voters of the party
whose nomination is sought and by the candidate, filed not later than twelve o'clock (12:00)
noon, prevailing time, December 6, 2015. The nominating petitions shall be filed with the
state election commission and certified duplicates with the coordinator of elections and with
the chair of the candidate's party's state executive committee. No candidate may enter the
presidential primary of more than one (1) statewide political party. There are no filing fees.
Presidential candidates must certify the name of their authorized representative(s) to the State
Democratic Chair by January 6, 2016.
32 | 2 0 1 6 D e l e g a t e S e l e c t i o n P l a n 0 5 1 5 1 5 . 1 State 2016 Delegate Selection Plan
E.
Timetable (REG. 2.2.B.)
Secretary of State advises each of the prospective candidates that the candidate’s name will
appear on the ballot of the candidate’s party in the presidential preference primary. If such a
person executes and files with the state election commission an affidavit stating without
qualification that the candidate is not and does not intend to become a candidate for president
in the forthcoming presidential election, the candidate’s name shall not be on the ballot.
Date
Activity
2015
February 22 & 23
Party Staff research and study of plan
March 1
Affirmative Action Committee appointed by the State Democratic Chair
March 29
Party Staff research and study of plan
March 30
Party Staff research and study of plan
May 15
Delegate Selection Affirmative Action Committee members must be submitted to the Rules and Bylaws
Committee including names, contact information and demographic data.
May 15
Public comments are solicited on the proposed Delegate Selection and Affirmative Action Plans. Press releases
are mailed announcing the public comment period.
June 15
Period for public comment on state Plan is concluded. Final responses are compiled for review.
June 17
Public Comments having been incorporated as allowable, final 2016 Delegate Selection Plan is submitted to
TNDP State Executive Committee for approval.
July 1
State Party Committee reviews public comments and adopts revised Delegate Selection and Affirmative Action
Plans for submission to DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee. Press releases are mailed announcing the approval
of the Plan.
July 1
Delegate Selection and Affirmative Action Plans are forwarded to the DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee.
September 1
State Party begins implementation of the Affirmative Action Plan. Press kits, as described in the Affirmative
Action Plan, are sent to all state media. [Note: This is the deadline by which implementation of the affirmative
action program must begin.]
December 1
Secretary of State names generally recognized Presidential candidates to be listed on the ballot, and / or
candidates must submit a petition to the Secretary of State containing the name of 2500 registered voters.
December 1
Presidential candidates submit a written statement to the State Democratic Chair indicating the specific steps he
or she will take to encourage full participation in Tennessee’s delegate selection process, including, but not
limited to, procedures by which persons may file as candidates for delegate or alternate.
December 17
Secretary of state advises each of the prospective candidates that the candidate’s name will appear on the ballot
of the candidate’s party in the presidential preference primary.
December 17
The secretary of state certifies to the county election commissions the names of the candidates to be listed on the
ballot.
2016
January 4
Delegate and alternate candidates may obtain the statement of candidacy and pledge of support forms and
filing instructions from State Party Committee Headquarters, in person, by mail, or from State Party’s web site
at [www.tndp.org].
January 6
Presidential candidate deadline for certifying the name(s) of their authorized representative(s) to the State
Party.
February 1
Voters must be registered to vote by this date to be eligible to participate in Tennessee’s delegate selection
process.
Chair of each County Democratic Party publishes a notice of the County Convention in print media of general
circulation and simultaneously furnishes all the news media copies of said notice after February 9th and before
Feb. 19.
February 5 -15
33 | 2 0 1 6 D e l e g a t e S e l e c t i o n P l a n 0 5 1 5 1 5 . 1 State 2016 Delegate Selection Plan
Date
Activity
February 24
Deadline for District-level Delegate and District-level Alternate candidates to file statement of candidacy
designating his or her presidential (or uncommitted) preference and a signed pledge of support for the
presidential candidate with the State Party.
February 24
The Secretary of the Democratic National Committee shall officially confirm to the State Democratic Chair the
names of the unpledged delegates who legally reside in Tennessee.
February 26
The State Democratic Chair conveys to the presidential candidate, or that candidate’s authorized
representative(s) a list of all persons who have filed for delegate or alternate pledged.
March 1
Presidential preference primary.
March 4
Presidential candidates provide list of approved district-level delegate and alternate candidates to State Party
March 12
County Conventions to select delegates to the Congressional District Level Conventions.
March 14
March 18
A list of all Congressional District Delegates from County Conventions must be emailed or faxed to the State
Party Headquarters.
All paperwork from the County Conventions must be received via certified mail at the State Party
Headquarters.
March 19
Presidential candidates provide list of approved district-level delegate and alternate candidates to State Party.
March 26
Congressional District Conventions to select delegates to the National Convention.
March 27
Pledged PLEO deadline for filing the statement of candidacy and pledge of support forms with State Party
March 28
All paperwork from the Congressional District Conventions must be received via certified mail at the State
Party Headquarters.
March 29
State Party provides list of PLEO candidates to the Presidential candidates.
March 31
Presidential candidate or candidate’s authorized representative submits names to State Chair by March 27,
2012.
April 2
State Party provides list of at-large delegate to the respective Presidential candidates.
April 2
State Party certifies elected district-level delegates and alternates to the Secretary of the Democratic National
Committee.
April 2
State Executive Committee Meeting. PLEO delegates, at-large delegates, alternate candidates selected by State
Executive Committee selected.
April 2
At Large candidate deadline for filing the statement of candidacy and pledge of support forms with State Party.
April 2
National Convention delegation meeting. Delegate select National Convention standing committee members
and delegation chair. State Chair names convention pages.
April 2
State Party certifies remainder of elected delegates and alternates (PLEOs and at-large), along with standing
committee members, delegation chair, and convention pages.
April 2
The State Democratic Chair certifies the standing committee members and convention pages in writing to the
Secretary of the Democratic National Committee
34 | 2 0 1 6 D e l e g a t e S e l e c t i o n P l a n 0 5 1 5 1 5 . 1 State 2016 Delegate Selection Plan
Exhibits to the Affirmative Action Plan
A.
Members of the Affirmative Action Committee – See Exhibit A
B.
Media Outlets to be Contacted Regarding the Delegate Selection Process – See
Exhibit B
Major Daily Newspapers, Radio and Television Stations
Other “Non-Minority” Media Outlets
Constituency and Specialty Media Outlets and Targeted Groups
35 | 2 0 1 6 D e l e g a t e S e l e c t i o n P l a n 0 5 1 5 1 5 . 1 State 2016 Delegate Selection Plan
Attachments to the Delegate Selection Plan
ATTACHMENT #1
A summary of the process for selecting delegates, alternates, standing committee
members, the delegation chair and convention pages, along with related deadlines.
[This information has been incorporated as part of the state’s Delegate Selection Plan - see
Section IX.] (Reg. 2.2.A.)
ATTACHMENT #2
A timetable reflecting all significant dates in the state’s delegate selection process. [This
information has been incorporated as part of the state’s Delegate Selection Plan - see Section
IX, E] (Reg. 2.2.B.)
36 | 2 0 1 6 D e l e g a t e S e l e c t i o n P l a n 0 5 1 5 1 5 . 1 State 2016 Delegate Selection Plan
ATTACHMENT #3
A statement from the State Democratic Chair certifying the Plan as submitted to the
RBC was approved by the State Party Committee. (Reg. 2.2.C.)
CERTIFICATION OF PLAN
Pursuant to Regulation 2.2.C. of the Regulations of the Rules and Bylaws
Committee of the Democratic National Committee, I, the undersigned, Mary Mancini,
hereby certifies that the Delegate Selection Plan dated June 16, 2015, was approved by
the Tennessee Democratic Party Executive Committee at their meeting on June 29,
2015.
Dated this June 30, 2015.
___________________________________________
Chair, Tennessee Democratic Party
ATTACHMENT #4
37 | 2 0 1 6 D e l e g a t e S e l e c t i o n P l a n 0 5 1 5 1 5 . 1 State 2016 Delegate Selection Plan
A copy of the press release distributed by the State Party Committee announcing its
adoption of the Plan and summarizing the major components of the Plan. (Reg. 2.2.D.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 29, 2015
Tennessee Democrats Adopt 2016 National Delegate Selection Plan
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Democrats have adopted a Delegate Selection Plan for the 2012 Democratic
National Convention, Tennessee Democratic Party Chair Mary Mancini said today.
"Becoming a delegate to the 2016 Democratic National Convention is an exciting, straightforward
process that is open to all Democrats," said Mancini. "We encourage all Democrats who would like to
attend the National Convention to review the plan and begin campaigning to become a Delegate or
Alternate."
The Delegate Selection Plan is available at www.tndp.org or by calling 615-327-9779.
The Delegate Selection Plan was adopted by the Tennessee Democratic Party by the executive committee,
following a 30-day comment period on the Plan.
The Delegate Selection Plan describes how the Tennessee Democratic Party will select its delegates to the
2016 Democratic National Convention to be held July 25-28 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
SELECTION PLAN DETAILS
Tennessee will be allotted 77 delegates to the 2016 Democratic National Convention.
Tennessee will use a proportional representation system based on the results of the Primary apportioning
its delegates to the 2016 Democratic National Convention.
The “first determining step” of Tennessee’s delegate selection process will occur on March 1, 2016, with
a Primary.
District-level delegates and alternates shall be elected by a convention system with two-tiers: (a) County
Conventions and (b) Congressional District Conventions. All delegates to the congressional district
conventions must be elected at the county conventions, and all District level delegates and alternates must
be elected at the congressional district conventions.
The Delegate Selection Plan outlines the requirements for individuals wishing to run for delegate to the
Democratic National Convention and the guidelines to which the Tennessee Democratic Party must
adhere throughout the delegate selection process.
The Plan includes Affirmative Action provisions designed to make the delegate selection process
accessible to all Tennessee Democrats. The Plan also includes provisions for selecting Standing
Committee members, the delegation chair, convention pages, and challenges to the plan, implementation
and specific delegates.
###
38 | 2 0 1 6 D e l e g a t e S e l e c t i o n P l a n 0 5 1 5 1 5 . 1 State 2016 Delegate Selection Plan
ATTACHMENT #5
A statement from the State Democratic Chair certifying that the proposed Plan,
including all attachments and appendices, was placed on the State Party website during
the 30-day public comment period. (Reg. 2.2.E.)
STATEMENT CERTIFYING PLAN WAS POSTED BY STATE PARTY
The undersigned, Mary Mancini, hereby certifies as follows:
1. On May 15, 2015 a copy of the first draft of the Tennessee Delegate Selection
Plan was posted on the Tennessee Democratic Party website. A copy of the Plan was
either emailed or mailed to each member of the Tennessee Democratic Party State
Committee.
2. On May 15, 2015 a press release (a copy of which is attached hereto) was
sent to the media outlets listed in Exhibit B to the affirmative action plan of the Delegate
Selection Plan, announcing the posting of the Delegate Selection Plan on the
Tennessee Democratic Party website, announcing the commencement of the thirty day
public comment period, and announcing that copies of the Plan were also available at
the Tennessee Democratic Party Office at 1900 Church St. Suite 203, Nashville,
Tennessee, 37203.
3. The period for public comment ends on June 15, 2015, thirty days after the
commencement of the public comment period on May 15, 2015.
4. On June 17, 2015, public comments having been incorporated as allowable,
the revised 2016 Delegate Selection Plan will be submitted to TNDP State Executive
Committee for approval.
Dated this 15th day of May 2015.
___________________________________________
Chair, Tennessee Democratic Party
39 | 2 0 1 6 D e l e g a t e S e l e c t i o n P l a n 0 5 1 5 1 5 . 1 State 2016 Delegate Selection Plan
ATTACHMENT #6
A statement from the State Democratic Chair certifying compliance with Rule 1.C. which
requires a 30 day public comment period prior to the adoption of the Plan by the State
Party Committee, provided that the State Party has published specific guidance for the
submission of public comments. (Reg. 2.2.F.)
STATEMENT CERTIFYING COMPLIANCE WITH RULE 1.C
Pursuant to Regulation 2.2.E. of the Regulations of the Rules and Bylaws
Committee of the Democratic National Committee, I, the undersigned, Mary Mancini,
hereby certifies as follows:
1. On May 15, 2015 a copy of the first draft of the Tennessee Delegate Selection
Plan was posted on the Tennessee Democratic Party website, along with specific
guidance for the submission of public comments.
2. A copy of the guidance for the submission of public comments was emailed or
mailed to any person requesting a copy be furnished.
Dated this 15th day of May, 2015.
___________________________________________
Chair, Tennessee Democratic Party
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ATTACHMENT #7
A copy of all written public and online comments submitted through the process
provided above on the Plan. [Include information identifying each person and/or organization
making the comment and where appropriate, a description of the person or group so
represented, if such information has been provided or is available to the State Party.]
(Reg. 2.2.G.)
{attachment pending conclusion of public comment period}
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ATTACHMENT #8
A statement from the Chair of the Affirmative Action Committee certifying compliance
with Rule 6.F., which requires that the Affirmative Action Committee has reviewed the
proposed Affirmative Action outreach plan, including any numerical goals established.
(Reg. 2.2.I.)
STATEMENT CERTIFYING COMPLIANCE WITH RULE 6.F
Pursuant to Regulation 2.2.I. of the Regulations of the Rules and Bylaws
Committee of the Democratic National Committee, I, the undersigned, Ashford Hughes,
hereby certifies as follows:
The Tennessee Delegate Selection Affirmative Action Committee, in accordance
with Rule 6.F. of the Delegate Selection Rules of the Democratic National Committee,
the Tennessee Delegate Selection Affirmative Action Committee has reviewed the
proposed Affirmative Action outreach plan.
Dated this 31st day of May, 2015.
____________________________________
Chair, Affirmative Action Committee
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ATTACHMENT #9
A statement from State Democratic Chair outlining the reliable data and source used for
numerical goals established under Rules 5.C., 6.A., and 7. (Reg. 2.2.J.)
STATEMENT CERTIFYING COMPLIANCE WITH RULE 5.C, 6.A. & 7
Pursuant to Regulation 2.2.J. of the Regulations of the Rules and Bylaws
Committee of the Democratic National Committee, I, the undersigned, Mary Mancini,
hereby certifies as follows:
The sources and goals Referenced in the plan were reliable and included:
Gallup Poll: June-December, 2012 - http://www.gallup.com/poll/160517/lgbt-percentage-highest-lowestnorth-dakota.aspx
November 6, 2012 TN Election –
http://www.tn.gov/sos/election/data/turnout/2012_11%20Turnout.pdf
http://tn.gov/sos/election/results/2012-11/USPresidentCountyTotals.pdf
American Community Survey
http://www.factfinder.census.gov/faces/nav/jsf/pages/community_facts.xhtml
US Census
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2013 American Community Survey, American FactFinder, http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/47000.html
Dated this 15th day of May, 2015.
____________________________________
Chair, Tennessee Democratic Party
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ATTACHMENT #10
A statement from the State Democratic Chair certifying that the State Affirmative Action
Committee composition complies with Rules 5.C, 6.A., and 7 and that the names,
demographic data and contact information of members was submitted to the RBC 15
days after their appointment. (Reg. 2.2.K.)
STATEMENT CERTIFYING COMPLIANCE WITH RULE 5.C, 6.A. & 7
Pursuant to Regulation 2.2.J. of the Regulations of the Rules and Bylaws
Committee of the Democratic National Committee, I, the undersigned, Mary Mancini,
hereby certifies as follows:
Names, demographic data and contact information of members of the Tennessee
Democratic Party State Affirmative Action Committee were submitted to the Rules and
Bylaws Committee on 15th of May, 2015.
Dated this 15th day of May, 2015.
____________________________________
Chair, Tennessee Democratic Party
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ATTACHMENT #11
DECLARATION OF CANDIDACY
Must be returned to Tennessee Democratic Party by 12:00 noon (prevailing time), to
1900 Church Street, Suite 203, Nashville, TN 37203
Phone 615-327-9779 Fax 615-410-4718
By the following deadlines:
February 24, 2016, 12 Noon CST– for District-level and At-Large Delegates
March 27, 2016, 12 Noon CDST – for Pledged Party Leader and Elected Official Delegates
“I __________________________________________ , declare that I reside in
__________________ County and I am a qualified and registered voter in that county. I further
certify that I am a member of the Democratic Party, I understand that I must vote in the March 1 ,
2016 primary to be eligible to be a delegate and and I am a candidate for election as a
(Please check one)
(Separate forms must be submitted for each category you wish to apply for)
___ District-level
___ Pledged Party Leader and Elected Official
___ At-Large
delegate from the _____ Congressional District to the National Convention of the Democratic
Party, to be held for the nomination of candidates of such party for President and Vice-President
of the United States. I request that my name be submitted as such candidate as a delegate by the
Democratic Party in this process. I further declare that, if selected as a delegate, I will attend
such convention unless I shall be prevented by sickness or other occurrence over which I have no
control.”
PLEDGE OF SUPPORT
“I further declare that I am pledged to and a supporter of
___________________________________. (name the candidate you wish to be a delegate for)
And if elected as a delegate, I will cast my vote for
____________________________________. (name the candidate you wish to be a delegate for)
NAME________________________________________________________________________
ADDRESS____________________________________________________________________
CITY ________________________________________________________________________
STATE_________________________________ ZIP _______________________
CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT # _______ WORK PHONE _____________________
E-MAIL ________________________________________________________________
SOCIAL SECURITY # ___________________________________ SEX
___________
DATE OF BIRTH____________________________
RACE
__________
SIGNATURE ___________________________________________
DATE _______________
COUNTY _________________________________
HOME PHONE _____________________________
FACSIMILE _______________________________
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ATTACHMENT #12
Copies of all state statutes reasonably related to the Delegate Selection Process
(Reg. 2.2.L.)
Tennessee Code Annotated 2-5-205
2-5-205. Presidential preference primary
(a) The names of candidates for president of the United States shall be printed on the
ballot for the presidential preference primary only if they are:
(1) The names of persons who the secretary of state, in the secretary of state's sole
discretion, has determined are generally advocated or recognized as candidates in
national news media throughout the United States. The secretary of state shall submit
the names to the state election commission no later than the first Tuesday in December
of the year before the year in which the election will be held. If a candidate who has
been certified by the secretary of state wishes to be a candidate in the presidential
primary of a party other than that for which the secretary of state certified the candidate,
the candidate shall signify the candidate's political party preference to the state election
commission no later than twelve o'clock (12:00) noon, prevailing time, on the date
established in subsection (b), and the candidate's name shall be certified only for the
ballot of the candidate's chosen party, as the case may be.
(2) The names of persons for whom nominating petitions, signed by at least two
thousand five hundred (2,500) registered voters of the party whose nomination is sought
and by the candidate, are filed not later than twelve o'clock (12:00) noon, prevailing
time, on the first Tuesday in December of the year before the year in which the election
will be held. The nominating petitions shall be filed with the state election commission
and certified duplicates with the coordinator of elections and with the chair of the
candidate's party's state executive committee. No candidate may enter the presidential
primary of more than one (1) statewide political party.
(b) The secretary of state shall advise each of the prospective candidates by the most
expeditious means available that, unless a candidate withdraws the candidate's name
by twelve o'clock (12:00) noon, prevailing time, on the second Tuesday in December of
the year before the year in which the election will be held, the candidate's name will
appear on the ballot of the candidate's party in the presidential preference primary. If
such a person executes and files with the state election commission an affidavit stating
without qualification that the candidate is not and does not intend to become a
candidate for president in the forthcoming presidential election, the candidate's name
shall not be on the ballot.
(c) The secretary of state shall certify to the county election commissions on the third
Thursday in December the names which this section requires to be on the ballot for
each political party.
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Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1976, ch. 439, § 1; 1977, ch. 316, § 1; 1978, ch. 754, § 2;
T.C.A., § 2-510; Acts 1986, ch. 562, §§ 1-4; 1987, ch. 409, §§ 1-5; 2003, ch. 374, §§
14-17.
ATTACHMENT #13
County Delegate Apportionment Explanation
See Separate Document - Attachment #13_Delegate Selection Formula_County.pdf
ATTACHMENT #14
District-Level Delegates & Alternates Apportionment Explanation
See Separate Document - Attachment #14_Delegate Selection Formula_District.pdf
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